“From Research Tasks to Development Priorities”: AI Foresight Outcomes Were Presented at HSE University

Expert Seminar on comprehensive study outcomes of AI development promising areas conducted in 2024 took place at HSE University Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge (ISSEK). Attendees discussed methodological approaches to determining AI development priorities in research planned for 2025.

 

Olesia Maibakh, Head of Foresight Research Methodology and Organization Unit, Expert of UNESCO Chair on Future Studies presented HSE University project of 2024 “Foresight of exploratory research priorities in AI.” 

ISSEK experts has extracted the most promising and breakthrough AI research topics from 47703  published AI reports made at leading international conferences of A* level.

Within validation, 50 leading Russian scientists and experts in machine learning have shaped a long list of 9 the most significant areas of AI technology development, including 113 priority research tasks.

Among the key AI research priorities are the following:

- New Architectures Models (development of neural network optimally using computing resources)

- Multi-agent systems capable to coordinate actions for common goals achievement

- Cybersecurity (development of AI security methods in critical areas)

- Trust to AI (strategies for creating user trust through explainable algorithms)

- AI ethics and responsibility, in an ethical aspects context of new technology using.

Olesia Maibakh

"Foresight is a system of methods for assessing the potential and coordinating priorities for innovative development, aimed at identifying technological breakthroughs that can have the greatest impact on the economy and society in the medium and long term."

The study will expand on international level in 2025, Olesya Maybach noted. It is planned to conduct expert interviews with leading specialists from BRICS countries to determine priority AI research areas and relevant international cooperation features.

Leading expert of the HSE ISSEK Center for Strategies and Programmes Yaramir Tokhaev presented the project "Analytical study of AI development priorities", focused on applied AI solutions analysis, including in the field of industrial software planned for 2025. The study focuses on AI practical application and its impact on society and economy. Shaping of AI future development image and identification of AI strategic priorities are the key tasks of the project.

The new project aims to study how AI is transforming various areas of life, what challenges and opportunities this creates, and how to build a development strategy considering changes. Particular attention is paid to identifying promising technological solutions and key competencies necessary for successful development at the AI era.

As researcher noted, high dynamics of innovation in AI, rapid implementation of R&D results into new products and services, as well as the relevance of Russia's technological agenda make foresight studies a highly sought-after tool for determining RTD vectors.

The foresight studies outcomes will shape the basis for recommendations on AI development priority areas and contribute to coordination of the Russian expert community in this strategically important area.